Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

Cisco delivers a comprehensive portfolio of Layer 2 and Layer 3 VPN technologies for both IP and MPLS infrastructures.

At Layer 2, Cisco VPN addresses the needs of differing packet-based Service Provider infrastructures with two distinct Layer 2 tunneling protocols: Cisco AToM for MPLS-based core networks, and Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol version 3 (L2TPv3) for "Native IP"-based core networks. Both protocols provide high-speed any site to-any site Layer 2 connectivity, and support Layer 2 attachment technologies (ie: Frame Relay, Ethernet, HDLC, and ATM). Layer 2 VPNs also support emerging multipoint technologies, such as Virtual Private LAN Services.

For Layer 3, Cisco delivers VPN technologies such as Cisco IPsec, GRE, and MPLS/BGP VPNs. These technologies support the transport of IP packets as part of a VPN over IP/MPLS core. They operate at the IP layer, providing an intelligent control plane to manage customer traffic and complex routing.

Cisco VPN technologies offer customers the following benefits:

• One network, any access
• Complete set of protocols, platforms, and provisioning capabilities
• Reduced cost of ownership
• Flexibility, scale, and services required by service providers and large enterprises